Military to step up handling of sexual assault cases

The defense ministry said Wednesday it has revised disciplinary rules to tighten punishment on sexual misconduct among servicemembers and civilian personnel to curb sex crimes.

Under the new rules, military judicial officials will take charge of investigating cases of sexual harassment and assault, including rape, involving servicemembers, as well as those who are caught buying sexual services.

The disciplinary committee must include female members to decide the level of punishment to better reflect victims' voice and for fair disciplinary actions, the ministry said.

The revised rules also make it harder to lessen or suspend punishment on those who are involved in sexual misconduct, requiring senior officers to directly report to the defense minister or military service branch chiefs in such cases.

"The ministry will step up education and strongly deal with violators under the 'zero tolerance policy' to curb sexual misconduct among servicemembers and employees," the ministry said. (Yonhap News)